Top Activities to Experience in the Gili Islands

Anyone who’s been to Indonesia’s Gili Islands would likely agree on one thing – you can’t help but feel relaxed as soon as you set foot on the fine white sands. These three small islands off the coast of Lombok are a popular holiday destination, and it’s easy to see why. Its vivid blue waters, rich marine life, and dramatic sunsets present a tropical postcard, enhanced by the ban on motor vehicles, which further contributes to the peaceful atmosphere.

Although they may be small in size, the Gili Islands offer a wealth of activities. Adventurous travelers can engage in action-packed days of water sports and island hopping, while those who prefer a more leisurely pace can enjoy the numerous beach bars and spas. Here are the top experiences to add to your itinerary while you enjoy the beauty of the Gilis.

1. Go Diving in the Gilis’ Pristine Waters

The Gilis are fantastic for learning to scuba dive, with numerous international dive schools offering PADI-certified lessons in various languages. The surrounding waters are dotted with fascinating dive sites, where you can spot everything from shipwrecks to shy reef sharks. Popular locations include Shark Point, Turtle Heaven, and Gili Meno Wall, which is an excellent spot for night diving.

Planning tip: For the best underwater visibility, visit between April and September during the dry season. While diving is still possible during the wet season, thunderstorms and increased sediment can affect visibility.

2. Snorkel Around the Islands

For those who prefer staying on the surface, grabbing a snorkel and mask is the perfect way to explore the waters. If you lack snorkeling gear, rentals are available along the beaches. The clear and shallow waters teem with colorful tropical fish, turtles, and starfish. As you walk along the coastline, you’ll find signs marking the best snorkeling areas. For beauty spots further out, such as the underwater sculptures on Gili Meno, consider joining a boat tour for an island hopping adventure.

3. Learn to Cook Indonesian Food

If the local cuisine has enchanted your palate, consider joining a cooking class. Various cooking schools provide opportunities to prepare classic Indonesian dishes like mie goreng (fried noodles) and kare ayam (chicken curry) using fresh local ingredients. This engaging experience can enrich your culinary skills and allow you to recreate beloved dishes back home.

4. Eat Fresh Seafood at Gili Trawangan Night Market

For those staying on Gili Trawangan, visiting the night market by the harbor is a must. Open every evening from sunset, this open-air market features stalls offering a variety of local foods. Delight in dishes like nasi campur (rice with various sides) and try out traditional desserts such as terang bulan (thick pancakes) and klepon (sweet glutinous rice balls). The barbecue stands are particularly popular, allowing you to select fresh seafood and have it grilled right before you.

5. Explore by Bicycle

Exploring the islands by bicycle is an enjoyable and easy way to see the sights. The flat terrain makes it suitable for families. Cycling allows you to venture along coastal paths and through coconut fields and villages. Don’t forget your swimsuit to take a refreshing dip after your ride!

Local tip: Be cautious of the traditional horse-driven carts, called cidomo. Due to animal welfare concerns, riding these carts is not recommended. Instead, responsibly check out available alternatives like guided horseback rides with well-treated horses.

6. Enjoy Exciting Water Sports

In addition to diving and snorkeling, the Gilis offer thrilling water sports, including paddle boarding, sea kayaking, and banana boat rides. While rental shops abound across the islands, Gili Trawangan boasts the most variety of water sports. Although professional surfers may prefer the breaks on mainland Lombok, there are decent surfing opportunities on the Gilis during the dry season.

7. Get Involved with Local Conservation Efforts

Eco-conscious travelers can give back to the planet by engaging in local conservation initiatives. Various organizations focus on environmental and animal welfare projects, offering opportunities to support efforts such as rehabilitation for local wildlife or community-driven sustainability initiatives. Always check and ensure projects are aligned with ethical standards before volunteering.

8. Experience Local Nightlife and Live Music

The nightlife across Gili Trawangan and Gili Air is vibrant, catering to all kinds of partygoers. From live music at beach bars to a relaxed cocktail scene, visitors will find something to suit their preferences. Those seeking a more tranquil atmosphere can head to Gili Meno, known for its serene environment and local ban on late-night music, making it an ideal retreat.

9. Unwind at a Spa

Amid outdoor adventures, take time to relax and pamper yourself at one of the many spas on the islands. Treatments range from traditional massages to rejuvenating beauty therapies. Whether you’re on Gili Trawangan or Gili Air, you’ll find numerous options waiting to help you unwind.

10. Hike to Gili Trawangan Hill Viewpoint

As the sun begins to set, many head toward Gili Trawangan’s west coast for beach bar experiences. However, for those seeking tranquility, the hike up to Gili Trawangan Hill viewpoint offers a rewarding escape. The trail leads to breathtaking views of Lombok’s Mt Rinjani, Bali’s Mt Agung, and the other Gili Islands.

Local tip: While visiting the viewpoint, keep an eye out for remnants of WWII history, including a Japanese machine gun bunker.